Record-breaking funds raised in Brighton!
A team of 22 parents and local supporters rode out of the playground at 0745 on Saturday, after a light brekkie, a few motivating words from Ms Conduit, and a surprise presentation of a signed letter of encouragement from cycling royalty, Sir Chris Hoy.
Whilst the weather worsened as the ride progressed, the riders spirits remained high, helped in no small part by the fabulous Kathy and Nigel from local sponsor Bells Bathrooms & Kitchens who provided and drove the support van (refusing to take any payment for petrol), laying out drinks and sustenance at each pit stop. One rider described them as "Guardian Angels".
The cheerleading committee caught up with some of the group in Ditchling, where "rain and pain" was the feedback, and this was before they'd tackled the Green Monster, Ditchling beacon!
But tackle it they did, and with aplomb. After that, it was downhill all the way to Brighton, unfortunately with a chilly and wet headwind. Nevertheless, over 7 hours after they set off, they arrived at Brighton pier to the cheers of banner-waving families and supporters. Rumour has it that a spot of skinny dipping was next on the agenda, but... what happens in Brighton stays in Brighton.
The highlight of the day was the big reveal - how much money had the group raised from sponsors, friends and family, and the school community? The original aim was £2 - £3k towards sports equipment and fitness initiatives for our children. In fact, the team raised an incredible £7,614 - making it the biggest fundraising initiative in the PTA's history. Sets a bloody high bar for next month's Pub Quiz then (Fri 12th Oct save the date) - I hope you're all feeling clever (and thirsty)!
Check out our gallery of photos and then watch Pedal to the Pebbles: The Movie!
And if you're in any doubt about exactly how epic the route was, or want to follow in their footsteps, check the ride out here
Plus, we made the newspapers!!
Huge thanks to our riders, our sponsors, and to everyone who pledged to support the ride. Please go visit our lovely local business sponsors - take our word for it, they deserve your custom - listed below. Our biggest thank you goes to Rich and Mark for having the idea in the first place, almost a year ago at the first Reception 2017/18 night out, and making it not only a reality, but a brilliantly-organised, mega-fundraising, and most importantly, hugely fun, reality!
Headline sponsor:
Seabass Cycles
Corporate sponsors:
Bells Kitchens & Bathrooms
The Clinic by Dr Mayoni
Dell Autos
Paine & Hunter Opticians
William Bailey Solicitors
William Rose Butchers
Fitness partner:
ESPH